Linda Maxson

As an artist, my journey is deeply rooted in the tactile world of clay, a medium that continuously challenges and inspires me to create. My work primarily consists of ceramic sculptures and clay monoprints, the latter being a unique form of art that involves hand-pulled original images using a slab of wet clay as a matrix, layered with vibrant colored clay slips. This singular process, innovated by the late artist Mitch Lyons, allows me to explore the intersection of art and science, weaving my background in painting and ceramics into a cohesive and experimental practice. I learned directly from Mitch, and was captivated by his ability to transform clay into a printmaking medium, which has since become an intrinsic part of my artistic voice. 

Rather than consciously choosing my subjects, I feel as though they choose me. Nature, emotions, and the ebb and flow of current events, albeit in a non-political context, are the forces that draw me into each piece, leaving room for personal interpretation by each observer. My artistry is characterized by an exploration of unseen elements—shadows and "windows" created by spatial manipulation within the sculpture, inviting the viewer to look beyond the tangible and engage with the intangible.

Inspiration flows abundantly from the world around me. Nature’s textures and the emotive power of expression drive my work. I find motivation in the towering creations of other artists like Louise Nevelson and Henry Moore, among countless others whose legacies intertwine with my own creative path.

In my artistic process, I embrace the unique capabilities of each medium by pushing their boundaries. I experiment by introducing materials like paper or cotton to clay, enhancing both texture and durability. This method allows me to craft pieces which are exceptionally delicate, expanding the possibilities of what can be achieved with ceramic materials.

Although my kiln imposes size limitations, I have found freedom in embracing larger forms through the creation of concrete sculptures, allowing me to expand my artistic endeavors beyond ceramic boundaries.

Each creation is a reflection of my journey through life—challenging, evolving, and continuously inspired by the natural world and the emotive depths of human experience. My work seeks to open a dialogue between the art, its effects, and those who witness it, forever leaving space for new interpretations and stories.